Forest Walks Dumfries and Galloway

 Mabie Forest 

There is something for everyone here: open area for playing, picnicking, and barbecuing, several routes with breathtaking viewpoints, and abundant possibilities for animal watching.

Mabie is also one of the world-class 7stanes mountain biking centres and welcomes riders of all skill levels, from beginners to experts. 7Stanes Information 

There is many routes to take, but for the best one is the yellow route 'The Nith View'. This walk is 4 1/2 miles (trust me it doesn't feel like that once your up the big hill) it normally takes up about 2 hours that's dragging the kids along and the 2 dogs while having a few pit stops of a drink. 

This track climbs through the woods to a flat forest road that circles Larch Hill. From this high view point, there are ever-changing views of Mabie Forest depending what time of the year you walk this route, you will see the Nith valley and the Solway coastline. On a clear day, it is possible to see England's Lake District. On the route,  you will see the Goldielea Viaduct, which once carried trains between Dumfries and Stranraer, across the valley.

If you would like more information on Mabie Forest's walks have a look at the forestry website Mabie Information  

The Hills 

If you are looking for a quick walk The Hills this is only 1 mile, can let the dogs off for them to get a good quick run. 

START at the parking area, go over the stile or around it, and then follow the blue way-marking posts down the woodland road. Turn left and follow the cutting at the junction with the former railway line. The trail separates off the railroad and proceeds in the direction of a burn, passing through an intriguing area of woods. The trail turns upward before joining the forest road, where you can enjoy the valley's views of Tower Wood and the Goldielea Viaduct. 

To finish the circuit, turn right as you enter the wooded road. At this point, you have the option of turning left to gain some elevation and views back towards Dumfries, but doing so would require you to go back the way you came and continue down the woodland road.

If you would like to read more about Dumfries and Galloways Walks please click on the link below to my other posts https://dumfriesandgallowayplacestowalk.blogspot.com/?m=1

Why walk in Dumfries and Galloway

                                            (Mabie Forest) 

The Scottish Southern Uplands region of Dumfries and Galloway borders both England and the Irish Sea. Like practically all of Scotland, it's a great place for walkers who want to take in the varied and beautiful landscape. Dumfries and Galloway is a region of breath taking landscapes that are ideal for you and your dog to explore together on long walks in the countryside. It has more than 200 miles of coastline, ranges of steep hills, and vast woodlands.


Although the region's landscape may be its claim to fame, it also has a history and culture that are well worth investigating. Numerous walks in this area combine the stunning natural surroundings with an interesting history. I will be listing some of my favourite
dog walks me and my dogs love to walk in Dumfries and Galloway
that are guaranteed to entice you and your dog to enjoy the outdoors.



(Teddy, Theo & Bruno)

Health and Safety Advice:
THINK AHEAD!

• Wear good shoes and a decent waterproof jacket.
• For as long as you will be out, make sure you have plenty to eat and drink.
• The weather in Scotland may be highly unpredictable, so use common sense!
• If at all feasible, make sure someone knows when to anticipate your return.
• Please leave gates as you find them - Keep dogs under close control at all times -
• Keep to paths across farmland - Respect farm livestock - Take your litter home with you -
• Protect wildlife, plants and trees.

Dumfries and Galloway beaches allow dogs

There are many wonderful beaches in Dumfries and Galloway if you want to get out of the country. A café and a small store can be found at Sandyhills, a small sandy beach close to Dalbeattie, dogs are allowed all year round. 

Other beaches with no dog restrictions include Sandhead beach, close to Stranraer, which goes for more than a mile, Rockcliffe Beach, close to Dalbeattie and one wee beach that we call the 'secret beach' white port beach at Palnackie is a secluded beach that is great for a swim for both the dogs and you. Another favourite of ours is Mossyard near Gatehouse of Fleet with its holiday like sand and clear water. You can also hire a caravan looking over Fleetbay or if you prefer pitch a tent. Mossyard



(Port Beach)

Another lovely walk along the coastline is Brow Well 6 miles from Annan Brow Well was renowned for the assumed healing qualities of its waters, especially amongst residents of Dumfries. Brow Well Information and directions


(Brow Well, Ruthwell)

If you would like to read more about Dumfries and Galloways Walks please click on the link below to my other posts https://dumfriesandgallowayplacestowalk.blogspot.com/?m=1